Prompter: Devin Urioste
Discussion Prompt
Public art can come from multiple spaces, and could be done for multiple reasons. The overarching theme of public art has multiple genres and subgenres. Some of the most common genres would be Graffiti, Street Art, and Contemporary Art. These communities break down into multiple sub genres and definitions of public art. For some it isn’t even public art.
No matter what angle you come from, one thing is certain; once you give this art to a public space it is not yours anymore. This art or act of self expression can be perceived any way the viewer wishes to perceive it. We as the creators cannot control this perception and this leads me to a couple of questions:
- As the creators, should it be a priority to connect with the community you are creating in?
- How often do we think about our relationship to our viewers, and how important is that relationship?
- Where is your place in public art and who is your audience? Have you ever thought about this?
- What other roles can a person play when they are not the artist? If this is you, how do you play a role in ensuring the art in your community stays true to that community?
References
Pose Ted talk “Graffiti as an educational tool”
Cleon Peterson Mural Causes Controversy In Community
About the Prompter
Devin Urioste’s art speaks directly to what it means to use your voice and self expression as a tool to resist oppression and create a platform for those who have not had the opportunity to do so. Using a variety of materials including spray paint, collage, and found objects, his work not only focuses on the creation process but also its ability to facilitate conversations within his community and throughout Denver.
He uses these tools to teach his community how to use their identity as a source of creation as well. Devin has taught his curriculum “Identity, Power, & Art” in multiple spaces including the Denver Museum of Contemporary Art, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art and Rino Art District. Devin continues to direct, facilitate, and create programs for the community not only to make art more accessible to those who do not have the resources, but also to give participants the power to discover who they are.